Budweiser deal renewed
Budweiser and Manchester United have renewed their
partnership, extending the beer brand's proud sponsorship of the
English and European champions until at least the end of the
2009/2010 season.
Budweiser’s presence at Old Trafford includes exclusive pouring
rights at concessions and digital on-field signage displayed in
both English and Mandarin, which is seen by United’s massive
Chinese fan base.
“Manchester United represents the pinnacle of football and the
club’s popularity, like Budweiser, spans the globe,” said Tony
Ponturo, vice president, global media and sports marketing,
Anheuser-Busch, Inc.
“Manchester United and Budweiser are a perfect match, both
having strong, storied heritages and a commitment to being the
best. As Budweiser continues to expand internationally, our
connection with Manchester United helps create awareness and
excitement for the brand around the world.”
Local activation of the partnership helps reach adult consumers
far beyond the 76,000 people who pack Old Trafford for every match.
The sponsorship grants Budweiser rights to use United's marks and
player images in advertising, point-of-sale materials and packaging
in key markets in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa, North and South
America.
United chief executive David Gill said, “Budweiser is dedicated
to football and has been a valuable partner to Manchester
United."
“Budweiser’s use of United for marketing activities has brought
loyal followers closer than ever to the Club. The Club and, most
importantly, our fans are pleased to have Budweiser’s support.”
The sponsorship also provides Budweiser with hospitality
packages and match tickets for promotional activities, which the
brand uses to offer customers and consumers once-in-a-lifetime
experiences at the Theatre of Dreams.
Throughout the 2008/2009 season, Budweiser will launch
promotions in the UK, Mexico, Argentina and Vietnam for fans to win
trips to United matches.
In 2008, Old Trafford once again played host to the
international finals of the Budweiser Cup, a 6-on-6 football
tournament comprised of recreational teams from 16 countries.
Players qualified through local tournaments throughout Europe and
as far away as India, Paraguay, South Korea and South Africa.
In addition to competing on the pitch, Budweiser’s guests enjoyed a
dinner with United legends, a tour of Old Trafford, access to
training facilities and tickets to a first-team match.
Budweiser has been a proud sponsor of Manchester United since 2002.
For more information about the beer brand, visit www.anheuser-busch.com.